NFL Odds and Predictions: Picking the full Week 17 slate of games against the spread

While the PIttsburgh Steelers enter Week 17 not knowing if there will be another game for them next weekend, we can at least be sure this will be last week of the BTSC staff picks. Barring something of a miracle, Jeff Hartman should easily claim the champions crown this season with a commanding lead in picks against the spread as well as versus the totals. In a desperate attempt to overtake him on this final Sunday, I have been forced to take the opposite selection in almost every game.

When you consider that the NFL schedule makers try to fill the last week of the season with as many key matchups possible with playoff implications, it would be fair to say they have fallen short of the mark this year. Seven games are separated by a spread of more than a touchdown, while five feature a double-digit spread and only one game is currently showing a line of less than a field goal.

With the Steelers expected to win their game easily against the Cincinnati Bengals (+14.5), the real interest for many Pittsburgh fans will be the game between the Baltimore Ravens (-5.5) and Cleveland Browns. Should things go array for the Steelers in the afternoon session, there is also a possibility of a playoff place if they win and the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans (+3.5) tie on Sunday night. Highly unlikely, but a slim thread of hope to hold onto if the Ravens win earlier in the day.

Selections have been made using the consensus Las Vegas odds from VegasInsider.com as of Friday night and we encourage you to play along with us by adding your picks below.